Bla g 2 (German cockroach allergen Bla g 2) (Bla g 2)

Bla g 2 is a major glycoprotein allergen produced by the German cockroach (*Blattella germanica*) and is one of the most potent indoor allergens associated with asthma and other respiratory allergies. It has a molecular weight around 36 kDa and shows strong sequence homology with aspartic proteinases; however, it lacks enzymatic activity due to critical amino acid substitutions. Instead, its three-dimensional structure suggests potential peptide-binding properties. Found abundantly in digestive organs and feces of *B. germanica*, environmental exposure leads to high rates (60–80%) of specific IgE sensitization among allergic individuals. Recombinant forms are used both diagnostically (as biomarkers) and therapeutically (for desensitization). The main therapeutic challenge lies in balancing effective immune modulation while minimizing risk from potent IgE binding.

Other names

German cockroach allergen Bla g 2Cockroach allergen group 2Blattella germanica group 2 allergen

For immunotherapeutics targeting this molecule: - Induction of immune tolerance by repeated controlled exposure to recombinant or modified forms of the allergen, aiming to reduce IgE-mediated hypersensitivity responses and promote regulatory T cell responses